Climate Justice and Ecocide at the Forefront of Zambia’s Diplomatic Agenda
Her Excellency Macenje Mazoka, High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom, participated in the International Conference on Ecocide, Human Rights and Environmental Justice at the University of London, organised in collaboration with UCLA.
The hybrid event brought together scholars, activists, diplomats and lawmakers from across the globe to discuss the intersections of international law, human rights, and ecological justice.
High Commissioner Mazoka spoke on environmental justice from an African perspective, emphasising that climate change is eroding ecosystems and rural livelihoods. She highlighted the impacts on Zambia, including droughts, heavy rainfall, threats to food security, energy generation challenges, and disruptions to rural communities.
“From droughts in Southern Africa to floods in the Sahel, from declining fisheries to desertification and displacement, these are stories of justice unfolding in real time,” she stated.
The High Commissioner noted that African nations are developing adaptation strategies grounded in community knowledge, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy. Zambia’s investments in green energy and sustainable forestry were cited as examples of efforts to balance development with environmental stewardship.
She further stressed that environmental justice requires legal and systemic transformation. “For too long, the Global South has borne the brunt of ecological devastation driven by extractive industries and consumption patterns beyond its control,” she said. “Recognising ecocide as a crime reframes environmental harm as a core international justice issue.”
High Commissioner Mazoka concluded by highlighting Africa’s pivotal role in shaping ecocide law and responsible resource management. She noted that Zambia and other African nations are engaging in bold conversations on fair trade in critical minerals, responsible mining, and nature-positive investments that protect communities and natural resources alike.
The conference also featured contributions from Jojo Mehta, Founder of Stop Ecocide International; Monica Lennon, MSP; Samia Dumbuya, founder of The People’s Ark; and Kaeden Watts from Aotearoa New Zealand, discussing global perspectives on environmental justice and accountability.
